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- Get a multimeter.
- Set your multimeter to DCV (DC Volts) above 15.
- Make sure your alternator's positive and negative terminals are clean.
- Put the multimeter's black cable to the negative terminal and the red cable to the positive terminal.
- Look for an ideal alternator reading of around 12.6.
How do you check if your alternator is bad?
An illuminated dashboard light can indicate a problem with an automobile charging system. However, a very simple way to check if the alternator is working is to run the car and disconnect the positive terminal of the battery. If the vehicle stops running, then you probably have a bad alternator.
How can I test my alternator myself?
If you don't have good access to your alternator, then you can simple test the alternator by touching the positive multi-meter probe to the positive terminal on your battery and likewise the negative probe to the negative terminal on your battery.
